ACTIF: an interactor centric interaction framework

The design and implementation of interactions in 3D environments remains a challenge. This is especially true for novices. Mechanisms to support the creation of interaction have been developed, but they lack a central metaphor that fits the natural way in which developers conceptualize interaction techniques. In this paper, we introduce a new framework whose design mirrors the essence of interaction throughout the Virtual Reality spectrum, where the user is literally in the center. It also reflects the way in which interactions are actually understood and described, based on the interactor and her actions. Based on the central metaphor of the interactor, an implementation that is composed of three phases is developed. Those phases are: input retrieval and shaping, interpretation of user intentions, and execution of changes to the environment. Through these divisions, software requirements like composition and reusability of components are satisfied. The resultant system ACTIF, an ACTor centric Interaction Framework, structures interaction development in a meaningful and understandable way and at the same time eases the design and creation of new and experimental interactions.